DRC Calls for Stronger Defense of State Sovereignty at Francophone Parliamentary

Yaoundé, Cameroon, July 13, 2026 - The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Aimé Boji Sangara, used the 51st Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF) to call for stronger international action in defense of state sovereignty, respect for international law, and multilateralism, while condemning what he described as Rwanda's aggression in eastern DRC. Addressing Francophone parliamentarians during the gathering held in Yaoundé from July 6 to 11, Boji argued that respect for territorial integrity and the inviolability of internationally recognized borders remain fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter and the international order. He warned that violations of these principles undermine the credibility of multilateral institutions and weaken the global rules-based system designed to preserve peace and security. Focusing on the security situation in eastern DRC, the Speaker accused Rwanda of supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion and blamed the conflict for one of the region's most severe humanitarian crises. He highlighted the widespread displacement of civilians, the loss of lives, and the continued suffering of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Boji called on the international community to move beyond statements of concern and adopt a more consistent approach in enforcing international commitments. He argued that multilateralism cannot remain credible if violations of state sovereignty and international agreements continue without accountability. He also urged respect for United Nations Security Council resolutions calling for the protection of the DRC's sovereignty, an end to support for armed groups, and the withdrawal of foreign forces operating on Congolese territory. Reaffirming the principles of the Francophonie, Boji emphasized that the organization is built on shared values of peace, the rule of law, solidarity, and respect for human dignity. He said multilateral institutions should remain committed to defending justice and protecting the sovereignty of member states rather than remaining silent in the face of aggression. At the same time, the Speaker reaffirmed the Democratic Republic of Congo's commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with neighboring countries under the leadership of President Félix Tshisekedi, stressing that Kinshasa continues to support regional cooperation and good neighborliness. The 51st Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie brought together more than 300 parliamentarians from 42 parliamentary sections. Throughout the week, delegates discussed a broad range of political, democratic, economic, social, cultural, and environmental issues affecting the Francophone community, highlighting the role of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing shared international challenges.